date
“date” means “give yourself” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
📝 In Action
Date un momento para respirar profundo antes de la reunión.
A2Give yourself a moment to breathe deeply before the meeting.
Date el gusto de comprar ese postre tan delicioso.
B1Let yourself have the pleasure of buying that delicious dessert (Treat yourself).
Word Connections
📝 In Action
¡Date prisa! El autobús sale en cinco minutos.
A1Hurry up! The bus leaves in five minutes.
Date cuenta de que sin ayuda, esto será imposible.
B1Realize that without help, this will be impossible.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "date" in Spanish:
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: date
Question 1 of 2
Which of these phrases correctly means 'Hurry up!'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
This word is a specific combination of the irregular verb *dar* (to give) and the informal reflexive pronoun *te* (you). The verb *dar* comes directly from the Latin *dare*, meaning 'to give.'
First recorded: Medieval Spanish
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'date' have an accent mark?
The accent mark is necessary because when a single-syllable verb like *da* (command) is combined with a pronoun (*te*), the resulting word has two syllables. The stress naturally falls on the first syllable ('DAH-tay'), and the accent mark ensures it keeps the original strong stress of the verb *da*.
If I am speaking formally to someone (usted), what is the correct command to use instead of 'date'?
You would use *Dese* (Dé + se). For example, 'Dese prisa' (Hurry up, formal) or 'Dese cuenta' (Realize, formal).